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                           Pets Can Benefit from Spending Time Outside!

                                           

Most pets already spend a little time outside everyday, mainly when going out to go to the bathroom. But many owners don't fully appreciate the added benefits from allowing their pets to spend more significant time outdoors. The following is just a few of the benefits for your pet from being outside:

 
Exercise...Very few pets get enough exercise, and for most dogs it is extremely difficult to be properly exercised indoors. Most dogs and many cats will greatly benefit from a couple of daily walks or some play time in the yard chasing a ball or running.
Weight loss and control...Dogs that spend time outdoors have an easier time losing weight and keeping their weight down. Many dogs gain weight because of boredom and lack of activity. Spending time outside eliminates both of these contributors to weight gain.
Relieve Boredom...Like people, dogs and cats get bored. In fact, boredom is one of the leading causes of behavior problems, including chewing and excessive barking. The outdoors provides a different and interesting environment that will help keep your pet's mind active, alert, and off of behavior you would rather not see.
A healthier skin and coat... The unfiltered sunlight and the changing temperatures help your pet's coat stay on a more normal shedding cycle, and, as a result, it should be healthier and fuller. Sunlight also has great healing powers and helps the body convert and utilize several important vitamins.
                                     
Many dogs that aren't used to spending time outdoors are often at a loss initially to know what to do. They will often stand at the door and beg to come in because spending time outdoors may be an unusual experience for them. A few tips when getting your pet to spend time outdoors include:

  • Spend time with them outside. Going for a walk and using a retractable leash will allow them to get more exercise.

     

  • Play a game. Throwing a Frisbee on land or in the water is a great way to exercise and will greatly relieve boredom.

     

  • Make sure they are properly and safely contained. Use an underground fence to make sure they can exercise and be safely contained.

     

  • Provide stimulation in the form of toys or chews. Many dogs love to go outside and chew on a rawhide or similar bone, or a rubber chew toy. While they may not be exercising while they chew, they get all the other benefits of being outdoors.

 

Spending time outdoors is a very normal and important part of a pet's life. As long as they are safely contained, supervised, and protected from the elements, outside time is one of the best health benefits you can give your pet.

And don't forget, your pet should always have a current nametag attached to his collar whenever he goes outside.

 

                                 Summer Tips - Enjoy Time Out         

With the warmer days of summer ahead, we encourage you to provide your pet with more outdoor time and exercise during the coming months. Exercise is critical to your pet's physical health, and the stimulation of the sights and sounds of the outdoors is excellent for your pet's mental health. Here's a checklist of things you should have on hand to make sure your pet remains safe outside and gets the most benefit from the time spent outdoors.

  • Nametags - Your pet should always have a current nametag on his collar. There are no exceptions to this rule, even if you have a fenced in yard, an exercise pen, a tie out, or plan on being with your pet the entire time.

     

  • Water - Fresh water should always be available. Change the water frequently to prevent the possibility of contamination. It's best to keep a separate dish outside as a visual reminder for you, and for your convenience.
  • Toys & Bones - Give your dog something to play with and chew on to relieve boredom, especially if she will be alone for some time. Chew toys provide hours of postive, focused activity for dogs, and interactive, fetch toys like balls or Frisbee-type discs are great for exercise.

     

  • Spend as much time with your pet as you can - Dogs need human interaction and attention. If left alone for too long, they may get insecure which could lead to behavior problems. You should be with your dog as much as possible.

     

  • Shade - Place your outdoor pen in a shaded area for your pet's safety, particularly on hot, sunny days. If no shade is available, you may want to choose a pen with a top cover. Tie-outs should also extend into a shaded area.

     

  • Think safety - Make sure you choose a tie out area that is clear of dangers such as drop offs, elevated decks, low-hanging branches or anything that could cause strangulation or injury.

     

  • Prevent excessive wear on your lawn - Move your outdoor pen, doghouse, or tie out regularly if you do not want your lawn to show signs of wear.

Summer is a great time of year to have a pet. We hope you'll make a commitment to spending more time with your pet outdoors, whether it's through increased play time, daily walks, or even just having your pet join you in the yard while you're relaxing in the sun.

                             For the latest advice, consult your Veterinarian!

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